Live Theatre's January to June 2015 brochure

J A N U A R Y- J U N E 2 0 1 5

www.live.org.uk See life’s dramas unfold at Live Theatre

Location & Booking Information

Live Theatre is one of the UK’s leading new writing theatres. From its base on Newcastle’s quayside, Live Theatre produces work as varied and diverse as the audiences it engages with.

Public Transport Live Theatre is located behind the Law Courts on Newcastle Quayside. It is approximately a 10 minute walk from Monument, Central and Manors Metro stations. The QuayLink bus service stops opposite the Law Courts and is a 2 minute walk to Live Theatre.

Parking The car park in the Trinity Gardens complex is 100 metres from the Theatre and is accessed from City Road and Trinity Gardens. The secure car park is open from 7am to midnight, costs 90p per hour and is free after 5pm. There is limited on-street parking on Broad Chare and additional car parks nearby.

To do this it creates and performs new plays of world class quality, finds and develops creative talent Book tickets by phone or online Call Live Theatre’s box and unlocks the potential office on (0191) 232 1232 or visit www.live.org.uk where of young people through you can select your own seat online. Tickets can be mailed theatre. out, at an extra charge of £1, or can be collected from the box office free of charge.

Our gift

Box office opening hours Monday to vouchers make Friday 10am to 5.30pm. Also open from fantastic presents 2 hours before, until 30 minutes after, – purchase them from our box evening and weekend performances. office.

Ticket exchanges are available up to 24 hours before a performance, for a fee of £1 per ticket (up to a maximum of £5 per transaction). Tickets can also be credited to your Live Theatre account.

2 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

CONTENTS EVENT CALENDAR MAIN PRODUCTIONS

P4-5 P6-11

New world class plays by Live Theatre VISITING THEATRE

P12-17

The best new plays presented by regional and national companies FAMILY THEATRE

P18-19

Theatre written and created by young people LIVE LAB

Watch or get involved in some of the country’s most exciting new writing LIVE MUSIC

P20-23

P P24

Toe-tapping music presented

by Jumpin’ Hot Club THE VENUE

P25

Drinking, eating and hiring Live Theatre NEW DEVELOPMENTS

P26

Latest update on LiveWorks FRIENDS

P27

Join a community of like-minded individuals SEATING & TICKETS

P28-29

ASSISTED PERFORMANCES & TOURS

P30

EDUCATION & PARTICIPATION

P31

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 3

January to June 2015 Calendar…

MUSIC

15 Jan

Ruth Moody & Band + Nev Clay Page 24

LIVE LAB LIVE LAB

25 Jan

10 minutes to…

Take Off Page 21

LIVE LAB

29 Jan

Scratch Night Page 21

30 Jan

Launch Event Page 21

MUSIC

31 Jan

The Caffreys Page 24

JANUARY VISITING THEATRE VISITING THEATRE

26-28 Feb Donna Disco Page 14

3 & 4 Mar Fleabag Page 15

FAMILY THEATRE

VISITING THEATRE

5 Mar

13 & 14 Mar

Write Stuff Page 18

Fat Man Page 15

VISITING THEATRE

MUSIC

FAMILY THEATRE

14 & 15 Mar Overload Page 19

MARCH MAIN PRODUCTION MUSIC

11 Apr

Kris Delmhorst + Hayward Williams Page 24

22 Apr 16 May

What Falls Apart Page 9

LIVE LAB

23 & 24 Apr

We Can Be Heroes Page 17

25 Apr

Geoff Muldaur + Brendan Croker Page 24

19 & 20 May

Stand-Up Comedy Course Final Shows Page 23

MAY 4 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

For more information about cour ses and events see pages 22 & 23

MUSIC MUSIC

3 Feb

Bronwynne Brent + Amelia Curran Page 24

5 Feb

Pharis & Jason Romero + David Broad Page 24

VISITING THEATRE

VISITING THEATRE

10 & 11 Feb

18 & 19 Feb

Broke Page 12

MUSIC

Double Bill Page 13

19 Feb

MUSIC

8-11 Apr

Diana Jones + This Little Bird Page 24

FEBRUARY VISITING THEATRE VISITING THEATRE

20 Mar Mixtape Page 16

21 Mar Schlock!

Page 16

MAIN PRODUCTION VISITING THEATRE

24-28 Mar

Jumping Puddles Page 17

2 Apr

Ruarri Joseph + Polly Barrett Page 24

Day of the Flymo Page 7

APRIL VISITING THEATRE LIVE LAB

21 May

Scratch Night Page 21

22 May Mixtape Page 16

LIVE LAB MAIN PRODUCTION

28 May 6 June

Rendezvous Page 11

MAIN PRODUCTION

31 May

Rendezvous 2 Page 11

7 June

10 Minutes to …

Page 22

JUNE To book online visit www.live.org.uk 5

MAIN PRODUCTIONS

6 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

MAIN PRODUCTIONS

WEDNESDAY 8 APRIL TO SATURDAY 11 APRIL

DATES: Wed 8 to Sat 11 Apr

Day of the Flymo

PERFORMANCES: Wed to Sat, 7.30pm

Written by Paddy Campbell Directed by Paul James Assistant Directed by Rachel Glover

LOCATION: Main Theatre

MATINEE: Sat 11 Apr, 2pm DURATION: Approx. 1hr 20mins SUITABILITY: 13+

What do you do when the state decides it’s going to take over from your Mam? Written by award-winning playwright Paddy Campbell (Wet House), Day of the Flymo looks at the chaotic lives of some young people. The mechanisms that swing into action when social services step in. And a brother and sister struggling to cover up the cracks.

The play is performed by talented young actors from Live’s Youth Theatre supported by a professional cast including former Youth Theatre members.

TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5 ASSISTED PERFORMANCE: Sat 11 Apr, 2pm Please see page 30 for more information on our assisted performances.

“I’ve worked in a children’s home for the past eight years and it’s an interesting subject. It’s not as black and white as people might think. I was delighted to be able to write a piece for young people and I am looking forward to seeing how the play is received by audiences.”

Paddy Campbell, Writer THURSDAY 9 APRIL, 6PM

Meet the Writer

Join writer Paddy Campbell and director Paul James as they talk about the show. Discover more about Paddy’s approach to writing a play and some of the challenges he faced.

Free, booking essential.

FRIDAY 10 APRIL, 9.10PM

Talkback

Join writer Paddy Campbell, director Paul James, actors from the show and experts as they talk about the process of bringing the show to the stage and discuss the issues raised in the play.

Free, booking essential.

Paul James, Associate Director of Education & Participation said: “Paddy has had a long association with the Youth Theatre but this is his first full length commission specifically geared towards young people which I am extremely excited to be directing. The piece reflects Paddy’s experience of working in care homes and poses some big questions. Don’t miss it.”

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 7

MAIN PRODUCTIONS

8 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

MAIN PRODUCTIONS

WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL TO SATURDAY 16 MAY

DATES: Wed 22 to Sat 16 May

What Falls Apart

LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: Approx. 2hrs, including interval

A World Premiere A Live Theatre Production Written by Torben Betts Directed by Max Roberts

SUITABILITY: 14+, contains some strong language PERFORMANCES: Tues to Sat, 7.30pm

May 2015: The most important General Election for a generation. All is not well for Tom Savage, an ex-Labour minister parachuted into a safe North East constituency, trying to win hearts and minds as well as an Election.

MATINEES: Sat 2 & 16 May, 2pm, Thurs 7 May, 2pm & Sun 10 May, 4pm

Wrestling with a heady cocktail of mid-life crisis, growing dependency on alcohol and the consequences of his Government’s policies in Iraq, Tom finds himself in a Tyneside hotel bar at midnight with a newly-teetotal barman and a ‘criminally attractive’ woman. What could possibly go wrong? Plenty…

TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5 Wed 22 Apr, 7.30pm Thurs 23 Apr, 7.30pm Fri 24 Apr, 7.30pm Sat 25 Apr, 7.30pm Tues 28 Apr, 7.30pm Wed 29 Apr, 7.30pm Sat 2 May, 2pm Tues 5 May, 7.30pm Thurs 7 May, 2pm Sun 10 May, 4pm Sat 16 May, 2pm

What Falls Apart is a tragi-comedy from playwright Torben Betts whose latest play – the 2014 West End hit comedy Invincible (The Orange Tree and St James Theatres) – also explored the state of the British Left.

“An uncommonly talented playwright…

Brilliant and testing.” Time Out THURSDAY 30 APRIL, 9.45PM

Meet the Team

Join writer Torben Betts, director Max Roberts and the cast as they talk about the process of bringing the show from page to stage.

Free, booking essential.

For information about more free discussions and events please visit www.live.org.uk

PREVIEW: Wed 22 Apr, 7.30pm OPENING NIGHT: Thurs 23 Apr, 7.30pm

TICKETS: £18-£10, over 60s concs

£16-£10, other concs £10 Thurs 30 Apr, 7.30pm Fri 1 May, 7.30pm Sat 2 May, 7.30pm Wed 6 May, 7.30pm Thurs 7 May, 7.30pm Tues 12 May, 7.30pm Wed 13 May, 7.30pm TICKETS: £22-£15, over 60s £22-£15, other concs £15 Fri 8 May, 7.30pm Sat 9 May, 7.30pm Thurs 14 May, 7.30pm Fri 15 May, 7.30pm Sat 16 May, 7.30pm

ASSISTED PERFORMANCES: Tues 12 May, Thurs 14 May, 7.30pm 6.15pm Wed 13 May, Thurs 14 May, 7.30pm 7.30pm Please see page 30 for more information on our assisted performances.

Director, Max Roberts said: “Torben is a writer capable of capturing the mood of the times and his abrasive, hilarious social commentaries have been much admired. So I’m delighted that his first play for us here at Live Theatre is an urgently topical, funny, political and ultimately explosive drama set on Tyneside during the lead up to the General Election.”

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 9

MAIN PRODUCTIONS

10 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

MAIN PRODUCTIONS

THURSDAY 28 MAY TO SATURDAY 6 JUNE

DATES: Thurs 28 May to Sat 6 Jun

Rendezvous

LOCATION: Main Theatre

A celebration of the life and work of Julia Darling

DURATION: Approx. 1hr 50mins, including interval

Rendezvous celebrates the work of Julia Darling, novelist, poet and playwright and, from 2001-2003, a writer in residence here at Live Theatre.

SUITABILITY: 14+

In her time with the company Julia wrote The Last Post, Attachments, Venetia Love Goes Netting, Personal Belongings and Sudden Collapses in Public Places. In addition to her plays, she was always generous to and supportive of colleagues, writers and emerging artists making new work. To mark the tenth anniversary of Julia’s death, Live Theatre is commissioning five short plays inspired by her work. These pieces will feature some of Julia’s collaborators and some exciting new faces working with Live Theatre for the first time.

PERFORMANCES: Tues to Sat, 7.30pm MATINEE: Thurs 4 Jun, 2pm TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5

Visit www.live.org.uk for further updates.

SUNDAY 31 MAY, 7.30PM

DATE: Sun 31 May, 7.30pm

Rendezvous 2

LOCATION: Main Theatre

Presented in association with New Writing North

DURATION: Approx. 2hrs 15mins, including interval SUITABILITY: 14+

Live Theatre is delighted to host an evening celebrating Julia Darling’s writing. This cabaret style evening will feature poetry, fiction, extracts from plays and live music performed by many of Julia’s long time collaborators, performers and friends including The Poetry Virgins. New Writing North will also be announcing the winner of the inaugural Julia Darling Travel Fellowship, a new award to support a writer to travel and write, that has been created in Julia’s memory at the event.

TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5

Further details of the Fellowship, and how to apply, will be announced in 2015.

IMAGE: SASA SAVIK TAKEN AT THE RENDEVOUS CAFÉ IN WHITLEY BAY

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 11

VISITING THEATRE

TUESDAY 10 & WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY, 7.30PM

Broke Presented by The Paper Birds Question: Sally is British and broke. If Britain owes over £900 billion in National debt and Sally has been on minimum wage for most of her working life, with the interest on her debt being equal to her monthly outgoings, then who is more broke, Britain or Sally?

Based on interviews taken across the UK in 2014, multi award-winners The Paper Birds explore, with real life stories from the front line of poverty and debt, what it means to be broke in this visually stunning new production. A heartfelt and urgent look at the debt of a Nation from displaced families and gambling addictions to beans on toast.

“Broke is a passionate and thoughtful show …exposing painful lies about poverty” «««« The Scotsman Co-commissioned by and developed at West Yorkshire Playhouse and Greenwich Theatre.

Funded by Arts Council England

12 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

DATES: Tues 10 & Wed 11 Feb, 7.30pm LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: 1hr SUITABILITY: 12+ TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5

VISITING THEATRE

WEDNESDAY 18 & THURSDAY 19 FEBRUARY, 7.30PM

Presented by The Six Twenty Written by Robin French Directed by Melanie Rashbrooke

DATES: Wed 18 & Thurs 19 Feb, 7.30pm LOCATION: Studio Theatre DURATION: Approx 1hr 30mins

The Six Twenty present a double bill of plays written by award-winning playwright and screenwriter Robin French (Soap Opera, The Royal Court and Cuckoo, BBC3).

SUITABILITY: 14+ TICKETS: £8, £6 concs

Breakfast Hearts: A Love Story “I take no pleasure in saying this Roy, but I’m going to have to eat you” Two mismatched couples collide in this dark and piercingly funny exploration of the need to be loved and to eat each other.

Choirplay “I bought a CD today because I was feeling unhappy.

I put it next to the CD I bought last week” A wry and cynical swipe at our endless battle with wanting more. Society’s individuals blend to become one in this hauntingly compelling play of voices searching for the ultimate fulfilment of true happiness.

“A true gem of the North East theatre scene” Shields Gazette To book online visit www.live.org.uk 13

VISITING THEATRE

THURSDAY 26 TO SATURDAY 28 FEBRUARY, 7.30PM

Donna Disco Presented by Chicken Pox Fox Productions in association with Live Theatre Written by Lee Mattinson Directed by Laura Lindow Performed by Paula Penman For anyone who ever thought that being fourteen was easy...

Donna is fourteen, clumsy and fat. She’s bland, bespectacled and, if she’d ever heard of The Beautiful South, she’d adore them.

She also has a new school project, to source a stranger’s story and present her findings at the annual Christmas Pageant. And so Donna takes it upon herself to befriend the colourful cross-dressing butcher from downstairs.

But when her mother goes AWOL and an innocent crush on a local pretty boy goes hideously wrong, Donna’s world begins to disband and the disco that plays in her heart is in danger of grinding to a glittering, gobsmacking halt.

“A tour de force of writing, acting and directing” ««««« Three Weeks Originally commissioned by Live Theatre. Supported using public finding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and supported by The Empty Space & Dance City through This Way Up.

14 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

DATES: Thurs 26 to Sat 28 Feb, 7.30pm LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: 1hr SUITABILITY: 14+ TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5

VISITING THEATRE

TUESDAY 3 & WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH, 7.30PM FRIDAY 13 & SATURDAY 14 MARCH, 8PM

Fleabag

Fat Man

Presented by DryWrite & Soho Theatre Written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge Directed by Vicky Jones Performed by Maddie Rice

Presented by Move to Stand in association with LittleMighty Written by Martin Bonger Directed by Alex Swift

Today I am going to be a new person.

Orpheus is doing stand-up for the gods.

No more slutty pizzas. No more porny A sharp new take on a classic Greek myth, wanks. Lots more lovely threesomes. GO. this is a bitterly funny story of love, loss The Fleabag bites back. A rip-roaring and eating your way out of grief. As the account of some sort of a female living her audience are transformed into the gods of sort of life. legend, will Orpheus ever escape his past?

The multi-award winning Fleabag won The award-winning Move to Stand are a Fringe First in 2013 and was nominated back with a black comedy that bridges the for a 2014 Olivier Award. everyday with the celestial.

“Sucker punch funny… I’ve never Martin Bonger (NIE’s North North North, seen a play quite like it.”

The Plasticine Men’s Keepers) delivers a ««««« The Scotsman gripping solo performance. There might even be a song.

DATES: Tues 3 & Wed 4 Mar, 7.30pm LOCATION: Main Theatre

“Funny, immersive and surprisingly emotional.” ««««« Plays to See

DURATION: Approx. 1hr

DATES: Fri 13 & Sat 14 Mar, 8pm

SUITABILITY: 16+

LOCATION: Studio Theatre

TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5

DURATION: Approx. 1hr 15mins SUITABILITY: 15+ TICKETS: £8, £6 concs

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 15

IMAGE: FIELD & MCGLYNN

VISITING THEATRE

FRIDAY 20 MARCH & 22 MAY, 7.30PM

SATURDAY 21 MARCH, 7.30PM

Mixtape

Schlock!

Written & Directed by Melanie Rashbrooke Presented by Penned in the Margins Written & Performed by Hannah Silva Bite-sized theatre inspired by music Part comedy sketch show and part music quiz. Mixtape take songs, and using only the words in those songs, create short micro-plays that can be no longer than the tracks that inspired them. The audience play along in quiz teams.

Schlock! is a powerful feminist satire for the cut and paste generation.

Hannah has ripped up her copy of Fifty Shades of Grey and now, surrounded by the crumpled pages and with the help of radical punk-pirate Kathy Acker, she attempts to Each Mixtape is themed. First up, on Friday put the female body back together.

20 March the Mixtapers take on Rock n’ Join Hannah after the show to find out what Roll classics with a jukebox of hits from the life is like as a poet, theatre maker and Rock n’ Roll hall of fame. Then on Friday playwright.

22 May they’ll be taking on solo artists Schlock! incorporates subtitling and British in their Solo Stars edition featuring mega Sign Language. stars such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, “Weird and unsettling... authentic and deeply Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley. considered” Exeunt Magazine Will you correctly guess the songs and Commissioned by the Poetry Trust. Development bands that inspired each short play and supported by Birmingham Rep Foundry & mac birmingham. Supported using public funding by Arts win the highly coveted Golden Mixtape?

“Innovative, imaginative, inventive, entertaining” ««««« Remote Goat

Council England. Collaborators: Rachel Mars, David Lane, Daryl Jackson.

DATE: Sat 21 Mar, 7.30pm

DATES: Fri 20 Mar & 22 May, 7.30pm

LOCATION: Main Theatre

LOCATION: Studio Theatre

DURATION: Approx. 1hr 40mins, including interval

DURATION: Approx. 1hr 40mins, including interval SUITABILITY: 14+, contains some explicit content

SUITABILITY: 15+, includes strong language and sexual/violent content

TICKETS: £6

TICKETS: £10, £8 concs

16 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

VISITING THEATRE

TUESDAY 24 TO SATURDAY 28 MARCH

THURSDAY 23 & FRIDAY 24 APRIL, 8PM

Jumping Puddles

We Can Be Heroes

Presented by Open Clasp Theatre Company in collaboration with Frantic Assembly Written by Catrina McHugh Directed by Rosie Kellagher

Presented by Sometimes We Play in association with LittleMighty Written by Dick Bonham Directed by Dick Bonham & Jamie Fletcher

Two sisters at war suddenly find their world turned upside down.

This is a show about facing your fears and becoming a super hero.

As the autumn nights draw in and the rain falls Grace and Anna find themselves trying to stay afloat as they jump from one puddle of emotion to another. Now the puddle is in danger of becoming a river and Anna fears Grace will be taken by the tide.

Teenagers Patrick and Mark spend their days dodging school bullies, reading comic books and dreaming of escape from their small town home. Then they meet Mr Smith – a real-life super hero, with his own costume and canine sidekick. As they come into conflict with a group of older boys, will he be able to save them from the gang’s clutches?

Jumping Puddles is a funny and moving story about two sisters fast-tracked to adulthood as they discover it’s hard being a girl but harder still when faced with the harsh reality and fragility of life.

DATES: Tues 24 to Sat 28 Mar LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: 1hr 15mins SUITABILITY: 13+ PERFORMANCES: Tues to Sat, 7.30pm MATINEES: Wed 25 & Sat 28 Mar, 2pm TICKETS: £14-£10, over 60s concs £12-£10, other concs £5

Inspired by real events and featuring original live music, We Can Be Heroes is a charming and surprisingly moving new story about growing up to be what you always dreamed of.

DATES: Thurs 23 & Fri 24 Apr, 8pm LOCATION: Studio Theatre DURATION: 1hr 5mins SUITABILITY: 12+ TICKETS: £8, £6 concs

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 17

FAMILY THEATRE

THURSDAY 5 MARCH, 7.30PM

DATE: Thurs 5 Mar, 7.30pm

Write Stuff

LOCATION: Studio Theatre

Enjoy an inspiring evening of new plays written by 13 to 15 year old pupils from Furrowfield School in Gateshead as they are performed for the first time as script-in-hand performances by a talented cast of professional actors and members of Live’s Youth Theatre.

Combining a healthy mix of comedy and drama this is a chance to support young writers as they dip their toes into the world of playwriting.

Write Stuff is Live Theatre’s flagship writing project for secondary schools which aims to give unheard young voices a chance to share their stories on stage. The plays have been created following an extensive series of playwriting workshops. The group were then given the chance to fine tune their plays in one to one sessions with some of the region’s most talented writers during a bespoke residency week at Live Theatre.

“Write Stuff is a project that mentally and physically engages young people in the writing process. Writing skills are being developed, confidence is growing and young writers have become totally engaged in a project that they are beginning to drive for themselves. I can’t wait to see the end result.”

Zoë Whitby, English Co-ordinator, Furrowfield School

18 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

DURATION: Approx. 1hr 30mins SUITABILITY: 11+ TICKETS: £8, £6 concs

FAMILY THEATRE

DATES: Sat 14 & Sun 15 Mar, 7.30pm

SATURDAY 14 & SUNDAY 15 MARCH, 7.30PM

Overload Do young people have it easy these days? Or are they overloaded with expectations and pressures more than ever before?

Join Live’s Youth Theatre for an insightful theatrical journey highlighting some of the challenges and complexities of being a young person in a rapidly changing world.

LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: Approx. 1hr 45mins, including interval SUITABILITY: 8+ TICKETS: £8, £6 concs

Overload is a series of short imaginative pieces of theatre guaranteed to overload your appetite with food for thought.

Izzy Sorby, Youth Theatre member, said: “Youth Theatre presentations - Well, what can I say? You never know what you’re really going to get... A mixture of gender, abilities and brains all working together, with all different creative ideas buzzing around the room, the outcome is always spectacular! It gives young people a chance to share their opinions and experiences on a topic, also a time to shine with an audience in front of them. You wouldn’t believe where we started when you see what we finish with, the journey is... well a bit strange usually!

But still fab.”

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 19

LIVE LAB

Literary Manager, Gez Casey said: “2015 marks the launch of an electrifying new Live Lab crammed full of more opportunities for budding writers, comedians and theatre makers to get involved.

Live Lab is an innovative and vital part of Live Theatre’s programme offering a forum for theatre practitioners to try out new material and gain insightful feedback, opening a dialogue between the people who watch work and those that make it. Since its launch in 2011 Live Lab has attracted some of the most original theatre companies and artists, creating work that is bold, ambitious and relevant. We hope you can join us in 2015 as we expand our Live Lab programme and celebrate its re-launch with a series of events in January.”

20 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

LIVE LAB

SUNDAY 25 JANUARY, 8PM

10 minutes to…

Take Off 10 Minutes to... is back for another evening of new plays by new voices.

Five playwrights create five short plays responding to the theme Take Off. Matched with five directors, they have just one adrenalin-fuelled weekend to get them rehearsed and ready to perform.

Don’t miss this Live Lab celebration of emerging talent from our region.

DATE: Sun 25 Jan, 8pm LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: Approx. 50mins SUITABILITY: 15+ TICKETS: £5

THURSDAY 29 JANUARY & 21 MAY, 8PM

Scratch Night Be the first to see brand new work-in-progress performances and help shape their future development. Jointly curated by Live Theatre and The Empty Space, Scratch Night allows theatre makers to test a variety of new ideas in front of an audience.

Now in its fourth year Scratch Night is a staple of the Live Lab programme and has seen early presentations of critically acclaimed productions such as Captain Amazing by Alistair McDowall, The Soaking of Vera Shrimp by Alison Carr and Beats by Kieran Hurley.

DATES: Thurs 29 Jan & 21 May, 8pm LOCATION: Studio Theatre DURATION: Approx. 2hrs, including interval

FRIDAY 30 JANUARY, 8PM

Launch Event Some of the UK’s most exciting voices help re-launch Live Lab in a night of cutting-edge theatre, spoken word, comedy and music. Don’t miss this party for writers, theatre makers and audiences to informally share ideas about the future of Live Lab. There will be bite-sized performances of work in development and networking opportunities.

Plus, there’ll be the chance to pick the theme of the next 10 Minutes to... event in June.

DATE: Fri 30 Jan, 8pm LOCATION: Main Theatre, Bar & Undercroft DURATION: Approx. 3hrs, including intervals SUITABILITY: 15+ TICKETS: £5

SUITABILITY: 15+ TICKETS: £5

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 21

LIVE LAB

SUNDAY 7 JUNE, 8PM

10 Minutes to …

Join us during our Live Lab Launch celebration to help pick the theme for this edition of 10 Minutes to...

Five playwrights and directors will create 10 minute plays responding to the theme that is picked at our Live Lab Launch Party in January. They will rehearse the pieces in just one high-octane weekend.

WEDNESDAY 14 JANUARY TO 18 MARCH (EXCL. 11 FEBRUARY & 4 MARCH), 7 TO 9PM

TUESDAY 14 APRIL TO 19 MAY (EXCL: 11 FEBRUARY & 4 MARCH), 7 TO 9PM

Live Writers Group

Stand-Up Comedy Course

Join a group of emerging playwrights and develop a play with advice and support from Live Theatre’s Literary Department. The course includes visits from playwrights and theatre makers and the opportunity for each participant to receive a 30 minute one to one session after they’ve received their feedback report.

Tutors John Scott and Vladimir McTavish, alongside special guests, guide students through creating an on stage character and shaping material into a workable routine culminating in a special gig where students can try out material in front of an audience at Live Theatre.

LOCATION: Main Theatre

For more information, details on how to apply and application deadline see www.live.org.uk/livelab

DURATION: Approx. 50mins

Limited places available.

Past course participants include Micky Cochrane and Katherine Tanney who now both perform regularly at The Stand comedy club.

To find out more and to take part in 10 Minutes to... check out www.live.org.uk/livelab DATE: Sun 7 Jun, 8pm

SUITABILITY: 15+ TICKETS: £5

DATES: Wed 14 Jan to Wed 18 Mar (excl. 11 Feb & 4 Mar), 7 to 9pm

DATES: Tues 14 Apr to 19 May (excl. 11 Feb & 4 Mar), 7 to 9pm

ONE TO ONES: By arrangement between Mon 20 to Fri 24 April

COST: £100, £60 concs

LOCATION: Studio Theatre

LOCATION: Gallery COST: £120, £80 concs

22 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

See the students perform in their Final Shows on Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 May, 8pm.

LIVE LAB

TUESDAY 5 MAY TO 2 JUNE, 6.30 TO 9PM

TUESDAY 19 & WEDNESDAY 20 MAY, 8PM

Introduction to Playwriting Course

Stand-Up Comedy Course Final Shows

Learn key elements of writing for the stage including narrative development, theatrical development, character progression and structure in Live Theatre’s popular playwriting course.

Many students from the course have gone on to have work produced professionally including award-winning writers Paddy Campbell, Lee Mattinson and Fiona Evans.

For more information, details on how to apply and application deadline see www.live.org.uk/livelab Limited places available.

DATES: Tues 5 May to 2 Jun, 6.30 to 9pm

Join graduates of Live Theatre’s Stand-Up Comedy Course in these special gigs as they present routines that have been honed over the past six weeks.

DATES: Tues 19 & Wed 20 May, 8pm LOCATION: Main Theatre DURATION: 1hr SUITABILITY: 16+ TICKETS: £5

For details of more workshops and free events please visit www.live.org.uk/ livelab

THURSDAY 21 MAY, 6PM

Want to be a playwright?

Join Gez Casey, Live Theatre’s Literary Manager as he introduces Live Theatre’s unique online course www.beaplaywright.com Find out more about the five step by step modules each covering different aspects of playwriting, the practical tried and tested exercises students are asked to complete and the exclusive video clips of great dramatists as they offer the benefits of their experience.

Attendees will receive an exclusive discount off the Solo and Interactive courses.

DATE: Thurs 21 May, 6pm LOCATION: Gallery

LOCATION: Gallery

DURATION: Approx. 40mins

COST: FREE

COST: Free, booking essential

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 23

LIVE MUSIC

Jumpin’ Hot Club Present…

Jumpin’ Hot Club is committed to bringing a diverse mix of musical styles to the region. Celebrating their 30th birthday in 2015, Live Theatre is pleased to host a series of music events as well as a special photo exhibition celebrating the company’s landmark year.

THURSDAY 15 JANUARY, 8PM

Ruth Moody & Band (Canada) + Nev Clay TUESDAY 3 FEBRUARY, 8PM

Bronwynne Brent (USA) + Amelia Curran (Canada) THURSDAY 5 FEBRUARY, 8PM

Pharis & Jason Romero (Canada) + David Broad THURSDAY 19 FEBRUARY, 8PM*

Diana Jones (USA) + This Little Bird *NB LOCATION: MAIN THEATRE, TICKETS: £14

THURSDAY 2 APRIL, 8PM

Ruarri Joseph + Polly Barrett SATURDAY 11 APRIL, 8PM

Kris Delmhorst (USA) + Hayward Williams (USA) SATURDAY 25 APRIL, 8PM

Acoustic Blues evening: Geoff Muldaur (USA) + Brendan Croker For more information about these gigs and future dates visit www.live.org.uk/music IMAGES L-R: RUTH MOODY, BRONWYNNE BRENT AND RUARRI JOSEPH

24 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

LOCATION: STUDIO THEATRE (unless otherwise stated) DURATION: Approx. 3hrs TICKETS: £12 (unless otherwise stated)

Don’t miss the return of The Caffreys on Saturday 31 January at 8pm. Tickets are £12.

LIVEVENUE LAB THE

The Broad Chare

The Atrium Bar

The Broad Chare is a proper pub, serving proper food and proper beer. It was awarded a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand for the second year running and was recently listed 20th in the Top 50 UK Pubs Guide. A unique partnership between Live Theatre and 21 Hospitality Group, a proportion of the revenue is invested back into the work of Live Theatre.

Live Theatre’s Atrium Bar and Undercroft open two hours before a performance and close at 11pm providing the perfect location for a leisurely drink before and after a performance.

For more information visit www.thebroadchare.co.uk or to make a reservation call (0191) 211 2144

Caffè Vivo For a tasty Italian pre-theatre supper then look no further than Caffè Vivo for simple, authentic Italian food cooked with passion.

Hire Live Live Theatre’s five Grade II listed buildings combine to create a series of beautiful and unique spaces ideal for any special occasion. Add to that the intimate atmosphere and award-winning food from Terry Laybourne’s 21 Hospitality Group team and you have the perfect venue for those looking for something a little different.

With a dedicated Events & Hire Co-ordinator on hand to help you every step of the way Before the show, choose from the 2 course as well as in-house Technical and Front of House teams we can help turn your vision fixed price menu which is served Monday into reality. to Friday from 12noon to 10pm.

For more information visit www.caffevivo.co.uk or to make a reservation call (0191) 232 1331

To view spaces visit www.live.org.uk/360 or contact Chris Foley on (0191) 229 2376 or email chris@live.org.uk to find out more.

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 25

LIVEWORKS COURSES & CONFERENCE

New Developments Live Theatre has purchased land and buildings adjacent to the Theatre on Newcastle’s iconic Quayside to bring a significant new development, LiveWorks, to life. When completed in late summer 2015 it will include: • A children and young people’s writing centre • A landscaped public garden and performance space • And a landmark building with premium office space to lease that offer interior styles, finishes and lighting very different and distinct from other office accommodation elsewhere in the city Live Theatre is very grateful for the support of The Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust, The Gillian Dickinson Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation, The Sir James Knott Trust, The Monument Trust and The Wolfson Foundation.

26 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

For more information visit www.live.org.uk/ liveworks

FRIENDS OF LIVE THEATRE COURSES LIVE & MUSIC CONFERENCE

Friends of Live Theatre

Best Friends

Our Friends benefit from advance information, special offers and exclusive opportunities to meet writers, actors and members of the creative team in return for an annual contribution to Live Theatre.

Live Theatre nurtures the art of playwriting and the creation and production of new plays. We work with 90 artists every year, and have produced over 400 new plays which explore modern issues affecting communities in the north east, but which are relevant to everyone, everywhere. We support 500 children and young people every year to harness skills in literacy, communication and self-esteem, enabling them to have a voice in the community and broaden their future horizons.

When you join the Friends, renew your membership, make a donation, or leave us a legacy in your Will, you are joining a community of like-minded individuals who are playing a vital role in supporting Live Theatre’s work changing lives and building communities.

Join our Friends today by contacting Lizzy Skingley on (0191) 269 3499 or lizzy@live.org.uk

Noreen Bates Jim Beirne Michael & Pat Brown Paul Callaghan George Caulkin Michael & Susan Chaplin Sue & Simon Clugston Helen Coyne Chris Foy Robson Green Lee Hall John Jordan John Josephs Annette Marlowe Madelaine Newton Elaine Orrick Ian & Christine Shepherdson Margaret & John Shipley Sting Shelagh Stephenson Peter Straughan Alan Tailford Graeme & Aly Thompson Paul & Julie Tomlinson Nick & Melanie Tulip Alison Walton Kevin Whately Lucy Winskell

IMAGE: FLYING INTO DAYLIGHT WRITTEN BY RON HUTCHINSON, 2014 PRODUCTION SUPPORTED BY FRIENDS OF LIVE THEATRE

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 27

INFORMATION

Main Theatre Seating Cabaret Area

SIDE SEATS

Fixed Seating

SIDE SEATS

Main Theatre Seats There are a range of seating options in the Main Theatre. These include our cabaret area and fixed seats on the ground floor and balcony. Wherever you choose, audiences at Live Theatre are never far from the action.

Cabaret chairs and tables offer an intimate view of the performance with a social atmosphere. Cabaret seating is unreserved and allocated on a first come first served basis when the doors to the theatre open.

We recommend you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show.

Fixed Seating on our ground floor and balcony are more traditional rows of fixed theatre seating.

Side Seats located in the fixed seating on the ground floor are available for slightly lower prices and may have a limited view.

Accessible Seats have standard fixed seat prices,

even if they are located in the cabaret area. When making a booking please let our box office staff know of any access needs that you have so they can allocate the most appropriate seats.

Select your own seat when booking online for a performance in the Main Theatre, see www.live.org.uk

Studio Theatre Live’s intimate Studio Theatre is located on the third floor. Seats are unreserved and allocated on a first come first served basis when the doors to the theatre open. Ticket numbers do not refer to a particular seat and we recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes before the start of the show. Tickets range from £5 to £12.

28 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

INFORMATION

S TU C DE O N N T C S ES & SI O O N VE S R 60 s

XE (G D S ro E un AT d IN & Ba G SI lco D E ny SE ) AT S

FI

C AB AR ET

Main Theatre Ticket Prices

THEATRE PURPLE £22 £20 £15 £15 No additional PERFORMANCES concessions THEATRE PINK PERFORMANCES

£18 £16 £10 £10 £2 OFF

THEATRE BLUE PERFORMANCES

£14 £12 £10 £5 £2 OFF

MAIN THEATRE COMEDY

£12 £12 £12 £10 £10

Cabaret/Fixed Seats Cabaret/Fixed Seats

Main Theatre ticket prices We have introduced a wider range of ticket prices to include cheaper priced seats for all performances and lower ticket prices for students and concessions from just £5.

Our Main Theatre performances now have a colour classification on different nights with a range of prices depending on the type of seat that you choose: Purple for peak performances at weekends and towards the end of the performance run.

Pink for midweek, later matinees and mid demand performances.

Blue for previews, early matinees, off peak or shorter performances.

Concession tickets for students, under 16s, those on disability and unemployment benefits are £5 on Blue performances, £10 on Pink performances and £15 on Purple performances. One ticket per concession holder and appropriate proof of concession will be required when collecting tickets from the box office.

Over 60s receive £2 off on Pink and Blue performances on seats in cabaret and fixed seating for theatre productions.

Group/teacher/tutor discount are available for those bringing a group to see a show. For every 10 tickets bought Live Theatre’s great group discount gives one additional ticket free.

Music events in the Main Theatre may be either general admission or reserved seating, and prices vary. Please check when booking your tickets.

When booking by phone or in person, our box office staff will discuss your choice of seating and ticket prices with you.

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 29

INFORMATION

Assisted Performances Live Theatre offers a range of assisted performances aimed at improving the theatre experience for all our audience members.

Watch out for the following symbols to find a performance that meets your needs:

ritish Sign Language A BSL B interpreter is positioned on or next to the stage to communicate in a nonverbal language.

Captioning The words spoken by the performers are displayed as text on a screen on or next to the stage, similar to television subtitles.

Audio Description Available through personal headphones a professional describer provides a live commentary of the action on stage between words spoken by the characters.

Touch Tour To compliment an Audio Described show; this is a ‘hands on’ tour of the set describing props, costumes, characters and the visual style of the show especially for visitors with visual impairments.

Internal Hearing Aid Systems can be used for shows in both the Main Theatre and Studio Theatre.

Access Live Theatre is fully accessible. If you have any special access requirements please inform the box office team when booking so that we can meet your needs.

We welcome Text Relay calls.

To find out more about assisted performances please visit www.live.org.uk/assistedperformances

Tours Take a tour behind the scenes in Live Theatre’s historic buildings led by heritage guide Carole Wears. Learn factual history of the buildings and the theatre peppered with some tall tales and anecdotes from the company’s past. Tours usually last an hour and cost £5 per head with a minimum fee of £50 per group.

For more information about assisted performances and heritage tours please contact Carole Wears on (0191) 269 3489 or email carole@live.org.uk

IMAGE: CAROLE WEARS

This brochure can be made available in a range of formats.

Call with your request on (0191) 232 1232.

30 For tickets and information call (0191) 232 1232

EDUCATION & PARTICIPATION

Live Theatre is an Arts Award Supporter Venue Live Theatre’s award-winning Education and Participation team can create bespoke projects to support the delivery of Arts Award, Artsmark and the curriculum.

Activities can include young writer’s programmes, teacher training, drama workshops, historic tours of the building, plus a range of activities linked to our main productions, such as post show discussions, meet the team events and backstage tours.

Experiencing the arts as an audience member Live Theatre’s programme currently includes drama for older pupils, visiting theatre productions and creative workshops. Schools and groups can take advantage of our fantastic group booking offer. Tickets start at £5 and for every 10 tickets bought the 11th is free.

Accompanying teachers also go free.

Exploring the work of artists and arts organisations Live Theatre is home to a wide range of artists, theatre makers and practitioners.

We can arrange artist talks, post and pre show discussions and tours to groups interested in finding out what goes on behind the scenes.

Experiencing the arts as a participant Live’s Youth Theatre is the largest free youth theatre in the North East. Eleven groups of young people aged 11 to 25 work with theatre professionals to develop their drama skills and take part in annual performances. All youth theatre members and associate members (people on our waiting list) are invited to take part in a range of workshops throughout the year including the annual Youth Theatre Festival in August.

For more information on the Youth Theatre and to complete an application form please visit www.live.org.uk/apply To talk to us about how Live Theatre’s Education and Participation team can contribute towards your Arts Award or Artsmark programme please contact Sam Bell on (0191) 269 3488 or email samantha@live.org.uk

IMAGE: BRONZE AWARD GROUP 2014

To book online visit www.live.org.uk 31

Live Theatre, Broad Chare, Quayside Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ

For up-to-the-minute information follow Live Theatre on

Admin (0191) 261 2694 Box office (0191) 232 1232 Type Relay 18001 (0191) 232 1232 Fax (0191) 232 2224

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tickets@live.org.uk www.live.org.uk

Live Theatre is very grateful for the support of Benfield Charitable Trust, The Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust, The Gillian Dickinson Trust, The Sir James Knott Trust, MACSunderland Music Arts and Culture Trust, The Monument Trust, The Shears Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and The Wolfson Foundation.

Corporate Partners

Buckley Burnett Limited

Educational Partners

Friends of Live Theatre For more information on the benefits of being a Friend and how to join see P27

Live Theatre is operated by North East Theatre Trust Limited, a registered charity number 513771, company registration number 1697756.